Novice monks in orange robes walking past the wall of a gilded temple at dusk

Exploration

Laos and Cambodia - New Year Journey: A Celebration of Culture, Nature, and Timeless Beauty

A 14‑day celebration of culture, nature, and timeless beauty

  • 01/07/2025

Welcome the New Year with Meaningful Adventures

Welcome the New Year with a meaningful adventure through Laos and Cambodia, where ancient temples, mystical landscapes, and rich traditions await. This 14‑day journey takes you from the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang to the legendary temples of Angkor Wat, passing through serene waterfalls, sacred mountains, and rural villages untouched by time. Along the way, discover spiritual rituals, ethnic cultures, and rare wildlife, while embracing the peaceful rhythm of local life.

A perfect way to start the year with inspiration, reflection, and wonder.

14‑Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Luang Prabang, Laos

  • Airport pickup and hotel check-in.
  • Free time to relax or take a sunset walk along the Mekong River.

Day 2: Discover Luang Prabang – Pak Ou Caves

  • Visit key landmarks: Royal Palace Museum, Wat Xieng Thong, and Wat Mai.
  • Boat trip on the Mekong to Pak Ou Caves, home to thousands of Buddha statues.
  • Stop at Ban Xang Hai village, famous for its rice whiskey.

Day 3: Kuang Si Waterfalls & Local Villages

  • Morning visit to Kuang Si Falls – swim or hike in the area.
  • Explore Free the Bears Sanctuary near the falls.
  • Afternoon visit to Hmong and Khmu ethnic villages.

Day 4: Luang Prabang – Xieng Khuang

  • Drive through scenic mountain roads to Xieng Khuang, a region known for its war history and tribal diversity.
  • Visit Muang Khoun, former capital destroyed in wartime.

Day 5: Plain of Jars – Flight to Vientiane

  • Explore the mysterious Plain of Jars (Site 1, 2, and 3).
  • Learn about its archaeological significance and legends.
  • Transfer to airport for flight to Vientiane.

Day 6: Explore Vientiane – Buddha Park

  • Visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), with over 200 religious sculptures.
  • Discover the city's highlights: That Luang Stupa, Patuxai Monument, Wat Sisaket, and Wat Phra Keo.

Day 7: Flight to Pakse – Wat Phu – Don Khong

  • Flight to Pakse, transfer to visit Wat Phu, a pre‑Angkorian Khmer temple.
  • Travel to Don Khong, part of the 4,000 Islands region (Si Phan Don).

Day 8: Don Khone – 4,000 Islands – Pak Song Plateau

  • Explore Don Khone Island by bike or tuk-tuk: see Li Phi Falls, colonial railway relics.
  • Dolphin-watching excursion (Irrawaddy dolphins) near Cambodian border.
  • Travel to Pak Song Plateau, known for coffee plantations.

Day 9: Bolaven Plateau – Kato Village – Waterfalls – Pakse

  • Visit Kato minority village, experience traditional culture.
  • Trek to Tad Fane and Tad Yuang waterfalls, nestled in lush jungle.
  • Return to Pakse.

Day 10: Transfer to Siem Reap, Cambodia

  • Overland transfer to Siem Reap.
  • Hotel check‑in and rest.

Day 11: Siem Reap – Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat

  • Full-day exploration of Angkor Archaeological Park: Angkor Thom (Bayon Temple, Terrace of the Elephants) and Angkor Wat.

Day 12: Banteay Srei & Countryside Temples

  • Visit Banteay Srei, renowned for its pink sandstone carvings.
  • Stop at Banteay Samre and explore rural villages.
  • Visit Cambodian Landmine Museum.

Day 13: Phnom Kulen Mountain & Beng Mealea Temple

  • Morning excursion to Phnom Kulen: reclining Buddha and riverbed carvings.
  • Swim at the waterfall.
  • Explore jungle‑covered Beng Mealea, a hidden Angkor temple.

Day 14: Siem Reap – Departure

  • Free time until transfer to airport for your return flight.

Why This Trip

From the tranquil flow of the Mekong to the awe‑inspiring stones of Angkor, this route balances culture, nature, and local life—ideal for travelers seeking depth, serenity, and unforgettable memories to begin the year.

Our itineraries can be tailor-made for you

Tell us your dates, who is travelling and the kind of trip you have in mind. Our team in Hanoi will put together a tailor-made proposal and walk you through the options.